The Messy Bun Hat Crochet Pattern is a versatile and stylish accessory that combines functionality with flair. Designed with an open top for buns or ponytails, this pattern comes in four sizes, ranging from child small to adult small, making it a great choice for matching sets or personalized gifts. Crafted with worsted weight yarn and basic crochet stitches, it’s perfect for beginners and intermediate crocheters alike.

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Why You’ll Love This Pattern
- Open top — made for a messy bun or ponytail
- Four sizes — from Child’s Small to Adult, so you can make matching sets
- Optional bow — a charming detail at the back that you can add or leave off
- Basic stitches — worsted weight yarn and a pattern that suits beginners and intermediate crocheters
- A thoughtful gift — easy to personalize
What makes this pattern truly unique is the optional bow detail at the back. The bow adds an extra touch of charm and elegance, elevating the design into something both playful and sophisticated. Whether you prefer a simple hat or want to add the bow for a statement look, this pattern gives you the flexibility to customize it to your style.

You can find more of my crochet hats here.
Pattern Details
Skill Level: Beginner/Intermediate
Terms: US crochet terms
Yarn: #4 weight — sample in Red Heart Super Saver
Hook & Notions
- Hook Size: G (4 mm)
- Hook Size: I (5.5 mm)
- Yarn needle (to weave in ends and for the bow)
- Stitch markers (optional)
- Measuring tape
Sizes — to fit head circumference:
- Child’s Small: 18–19 inches
- Child’s Med: 19–20.5 inches
- Child’s Large: 21–22 inches (9 ½” wide by 6″ tall)
- Adult: 22–23 inches
Bow measures: 4 ½” wide by 2 ½” tall
Gauge: 13 hdc = 4″ using a 5.5 mm hook
Abbreviations
- ch = chain · sl st = slip stitch · st(s) = stitch(es)
- sc = single crochet · dc = double crochet
- sc2tog = single crochet two together
- sc in the 3rd loop
📝 Pattern Notes
- Worked in the round from the bottom up.
- I have also crocheted this messy bun hat using Yarn Bee Soft & Sleek.
- This messy bun is made in 4 different sizes. The image shows the Child’s Large and the Adult Small.
- Dress it up by adding a bow!
Special Stitches
- Reverse Single Crochet (rsc), also known as the crab stitch — the step-by-step instructions are in the printable PDF.
- sc in the 3rd loop — the step-by-step instructions are in the printable PDF.
How to Crochet a Gauge Swatch
Creating a gauge swatch helps ensure that your project will turn out with the intended size and fit. It’s also a great way to get comfortable with the stitches used in this pattern, allowing you to refine your technique for a polished finish.
Head Over Heels Blog Hop
The Bonfire Babe Messy Bun was featured in the 2025 Head Over Heels Blog Hop hosted by MadameStitch, an event full of crochet designs for your head (hats, ear warmers, and headbands) and feet (socks, slippers, and boot cuffs). You can see that year’s roundup here:
Have you crocheted the Bonfire Babe Messy Bun Hat? Share your projects and tag us with #BonfireBabeMessyBun to be featured! I would love to see them in my Facebook Group and/or on Instagram!
Join the Community!
Don’t forget to share your projects in my Facebook Group and/or on Instagram!





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